Sod Webworm Moth vs Speckled Emperor Moth

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Sod Webworm Moth Speckled Emperor Moth
Scientific Name Crambus praefectellus Gynanisa maja
Order Lepidoptera Lepidoptera
Family Crambidae Saturniidae
Size 18-22 mm wingspan 90-120 mm wingspan
Habitat Gardens Grasslands
Diet Omnivores Omnivores
Regions North America Southern Africa, East Africa
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Sod Webworm Moth

A small straw-colored moth that holds its wings tightly rolled around its body at rest, giving it a tubular appearance. Its larvae create silk-lined tunnels in lawn thatch.

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Did You Know?

Homeowners often first notice them as small pale moths that flush up in clouds when walking across the lawn at dusk.

Speckled Emperor Moth

A large earth-toned emperor moth with speckled brown and grey wings bearing clear eyespots. It is a common moth in southern African bushveld.

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Did You Know?

The caterpillars are edible and are harvested alongside mopane worms as a traditional food source in rural areas.